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In MemoriamRobert E. Kennedy

"A great library is essential to a higher education institution. The library is like the kitchen in a home. It's the hub of the house; it's where you get fed." — President Emeritus Robert E. Kennedy (1915-2010)

Library advocate

President Emeritus Robert E. Kennedy was always an advocate for the university's library. In the 1940s, he was assigned the title of Cal Poly Librarian in addition to his responsibilities as professor and faculty advisor. Later, as president, Dr. Kennedy was actively involved working with the legislature to fund the construction of a new library to replace the out-of-date Dexter Library.

In 1978 the CSU trustees voted to name Cal Poly's new library building after its seventh leader in honor of his dedicated service. A year later, after 39 years of service to Cal Poly, President Kennedy retired.

The Robert E. Kennedy Library celebrated the legacy of its namesake by hosting a celebration during the 30th anniversary ceremony on April 8, 2011. The event was attended by many members of President Kennedy's family as well as campus leaders and friends.